Bright Stuff Seriously Cleaan Face Wash
Bright Stuff Seriously Cleaan Face Wash
Product Description
Product overview
A gentle creamy-foam face wash by Indonesian brand Emina, powered by Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) and Actinidia Polygama (Summer Plum) Extract to cleanse away impurities, combat dullness, and keep skin hydrated — without stripping the moisture barrier. Paraben-free, sulfate-free, and suitable for daily morning and evening use.
Niacinamide Brightening
Vitamin B3 visibly evens skin tone, reduces hyperpigmentation, and minimizes the appearance of enlarged pores with consistent daily use.
Texture & feel
SENSORYNiacinamide Brightening
Vitamin B3 visibly evens skin tone, reduces hyperpigmentation, and minimizes the appearance of enlarged pores with consistent daily use.
Summer Plum Extract
Actinidia Polygama Fruit Extract acts as a natural anti-pollutant and antioxidant, shielding skin from environmental stressors while supporting a brighter complexion.
Licorice Root Soothing
Glycyrrhiza Glabra Root Extract delivers anti-inflammatory benefits and gentle brightening, helping to calm redness and even out discoloration over time.
Moisture-Preserving Cleanse
The soap-free formula with Glycerin, Panthenol, and Allantoin cleans thoroughly without disrupting the skin's natural moisture barrier, leaving skin feeling soft rather than tight.
Kaolin Clay Pore-Cleansing
Kaolin gently draws out excess sebum and impurities from pores, making this cleanser especially effective for oily and combination skin types.
Free From Harsh Actives
No parabens, no SLS/SLES sulfates, no silicones, no harsh alcohols, and no common allergens — a clean-label formulation ideal for sensitive or reactive skin.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEThis formula contains Parfum (fragrance) and Propylene Glycol. While no retinoids, hydroquinone, or high-dose salicylic acid are present, the fragrance component warrants caution. Consult your healthcare provider before use during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
This product is NOT considered fungal-acne safe. It contains Lauric Acid, Myristic Acid, Stearic Acid, and Glycol Distearate — fatty acids and esters that can feed Malassezia yeast. Those with fungal acne should choose a dedicated FA-safe cleanser.
Myristic Acid (rating 3) and Lauric Acid (rating 4) are present in the formulation. However, being a rinse-off cleanser significantly lowers the actual comedogenic risk in practice. Suitable for most skin types when used correctly.
This product contains no retinol, retinaldehyde, or retinoic acid derivatives, making it safe to incorporate into routines that include vitamin A treatments.
Preserved with Phenoxyethanol and Ethylhexylglycerin — both are well-accepted, globally approved preservatives considered safe for all skin types at cosmetic concentrations.
Emina is an Indonesian brand certified Halal, making this product appropriate for consumers requiring Halal-compliant beauty products.
Avoid direct contact with the eye area. The surfactant blend (Decyl Glucoside, Lauric Acid) may cause mild irritation if it enters the eyes. Rinse immediately with water if contact occurs.
Formulated without oxybenzone, octinoxate, or other chemicals flagged as harmful to marine ecosystems. Classified as reef safe by multiple ingredient analysis platforms.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSGlycerin Top 5%Proven
One of the most well-researched humectants in skincare. Glycerin draws water from the environment and deeper skin layers to the surface, maintaining hydration throughout the cleansing process. It forms a protective moisture film that helps prevent trans-epidermal water loss (TEWL).
- Function: Humectant, skin-conditioning agent, solvent
- Study: A 2016 clinical study found glycerin more effective than AHAs and hyaluronic acid as a humectant in certain formulations
- Skin barrier: Supports barrier function by interacting with aquaporins (water-channel proteins) in the skin
Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) ~2–5%Proven
A multifunctional powerhouse ingredient that is one of the most thoroughly researched actives in cosmetic science. In this cleanser, Niacinamide delivers brightening, pore-minimizing, and oil-regulating benefits even during the brief contact time of a rinse-off product.
- Brightening: Inhibits melanosome transfer between melanocytes and keratinocytes, reducing hyperpigmentation
- Barrier support: Stimulates ceramide synthesis, reinforcing the skin's protective barrier
- Anti-inflammatory: Reduces redness and blotchiness; well-tolerated by sensitive skin
- Pore minimizing: Regulates sebum production and reduces the visible appearance of pores
Actinidia Polygama Fruit Extract (Summer Plum) Trace–1%Promising
The hero botanical extract in this formula, also known as Silver Vine or Japanese Catnip fruit. Rich in antioxidants, it is marketed for its anti-pollutant properties — helping to neutralize free radicals caused by urban environmental stressors including PM2.5 particles and UV-induced oxidative damage.
- Antioxidant activity: Contains actinidine and iridoid compounds with demonstrated radical-scavenging activity
- Anti-pollutant: Helps shield the skin from oxidative stress caused by environmental pollutants
- Brightening support: Contributes to overall skin radiance when used consistently
Glycyrrhiza Glabra Root Extract (Licorice Root) Trace–1%Proven
Derived from the licorice plant, this extract contains glabridin — a potent tyrosinase inhibitor that reduces melanin synthesis and helps fade dark spots. It also has significant anti-inflammatory properties making it ideal for calming acne-related redness and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH).
- Brightening: Glabridin inhibits UVB-induced pigmentation at very low concentrations
- Anti-inflammatory: Liquiritin compound soothes irritation and reduces cytokine-driven inflammation
- Dark spot reduction: Consistently shown to reduce appearance of melasma and PIH in clinical settings
Panthenol (Pro-Vitamin B5) ~0.5–1%Proven
Panthenol converts to Pantothenic Acid (Vitamin B5) in the skin, where it acts as a powerful humectant and skin-repairing agent. Helps maintain the skin's moisture content and accelerates tissue regeneration — particularly helpful after cleansing to keep skin soft and supple.
- Wound healing: Multiple clinical studies confirm Panthenol's role in accelerating epidermal wound healing
- Humectant: Attracts and binds water in the upper layers of the skin
- Anti-irritant: Reduces erythema and skin sensitivity when applied topically
Kaolin Clay ~1–3%Proven
A natural mineral clay that gently absorbs excess oil and draws impurities from pores without the harshness of activated charcoal or stronger clays like bentonite. In this rinse-off formula, it acts as a mild physical absorbent, leaving skin clean but not stripped.
- Oil absorption: Effectively binds sebum and surface impurities during contact time
- Mild exfoliation: Fine particle size provides gentle physical cleansing action
- Non-drying: Gentler than bentonite; suitable for daily use even on drier skin types
Allantoin ~0.1–0.5%Proven
A skin-soothing compound originally derived from the comfrey plant but synthetically produced for cosmetic use to ensure purity. Allantoin is known for its ability to promote cell proliferation and wound healing, making it an excellent ingredient in cleansers used post-acne or on irritated skin.
- Wound healing: Promotes keratinocyte proliferation and tissue repair at low concentrations
- Soothing: Reduces skin irritation and calms post-inflammatory sensitivity
- Keratolytic: Mildly promotes shedding of dead skin cells at higher concentrations
Amino Acid Complex (Glutamic Acid, Glycine, Threonine, Valine) Trace amountsPromising
Four free amino acids are included in this formula: Glutamic Acid (a humectant and NMF component), Glycine (skin-conditioning), Threonine (barrier-supporting), and Valine (soothing). Together they mimic the skin's Natural Moisturizing Factor (NMF), helping to maintain hydration and support the skin barrier even during the cleansing step.
- NMF mimicry: Free amino acids are key components of the skin's natural moisturizing factor found in the stratum corneum
- Glutamic Acid: 2024 in-vitro study found glutamic acid may inhibit inflammation and support skin barrier repair
- Barrier integrity: Threonine and Glycine support collagen synthesis and skin structural integrity
Saccharomyces Lysate Trace–0.5%Promising
A yeast ferment filtrate derived from Saccharomyces cerevisiae (baker's yeast). Rich in beta-glucans, amino acids, vitamins, and minerals, it is known for its skin-brightening, barrier-repairing, and anti-aging properties.
- Brightening: Beta-glucan from yeast has been shown to improve skin luminosity and reduce dullness
- Immune modulation: Activates the skin's natural defense systems for a healthier-looking complexion
- Skin conditioning: Provides multiple micronutrients that support optimal skin cell function
Decyl Glucoside ~1–3%Proven
A mild, plant-derived glucose-based surfactant derived from coconut and corn. Decyl Glucoside is widely used in baby shampoos and sensitive skin cleansers for its excellent cleansing efficacy with minimal irritation. It is biodegradable, non-toxic, and reef safe.
- Mild surfactant: Cleans effectively at lower concentrations than traditional surfactants like SLS
- Biodegradable: Environmentally friendly and non-toxic to aquatic organisms
- pH compatible: Works well across a wide pH range, supporting skin-friendly formulations
31 ingredients
Myristic Acid, Glycerin, Water, Propylene Glycol, Potassium Hydroxide, Stearic Acid, Glycol Distearate, Lauric Acid, Glyceryl Stearate, Decyl Glucoside, Olive Oil PEG-7 Esters, Niacinamide, Silica, Phenoxyethanol, Parfum, Allantoin, Kaolin, Panthenol, Disodium EDTA, Ethylhexylglycerin, Polyquaternium-7, Butylene Glycol, Glycyrrhiza Glabra Root Extract, Sodium Benzoate, Actinidia Polygama Fruit Extract, Saccharomyces Lysate, Disodium Succinate, Glutamic Acid, Glycine, Threonine, Valine
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse twice daily — morning and evening. For heavy makeup or SPF, consider double cleansing: use a cleansing oil or micellar water first, then follow with this face wash as the second cleanse.
How to use
HOW TO USEWet Your Face
Splash lukewarm water on your face to open pores and soften any surface impurities. Avoid hot water as it can strip the skin's natural oils and cause redness.
Dispense the Product
Squeeze a small, pea-to-grape-sized amount (approximately 1–2 pumps if using the pump bottle) onto your palm. A little goes a long way with this creamy foam formula.
Lather and Apply
Work the product into a light foam between your palms, then apply to your damp face using gentle circular motions. Focus on the T-zone, around the nose, and forehead if oily.
Massage for 30–60 Seconds
Gently massage in circular motions for 30 to 60 seconds to allow the Kaolin and surfactants to draw out impurities, and for Niacinamide to begin contact with the skin. Avoid the eye area.
Rinse Thoroughly
Rinse completely with lukewarm water until no residue remains. The formula rinses clean without leaving a film. Pat — do not rub — dry with a clean towel.
Continue Your Routine
Follow immediately with toner, serum, and moisturizer while skin is still slightly damp to lock in hydration. In the morning, finish with a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have oily, combination, or normal skin looking for a gentle daily cleanser
- You want to incorporate Niacinamide into your routine at a budget-friendly price point
- You prefer a lightly-fragranced, creamy foam texture that feels luxurious without being heavy
- You're targeting skin dullness, uneven tone, or mild hyperpigmentation
- You're looking for a Halal-certified, paraben-free, sulfate-free cleanser
- You have mild acne concerns and want a cleanser that supports sebum control
Consider alternatives if:
- You have confirmed fungal acne (pityrosporum folliculitis) — the fatty acid content is not FA-safe
- You have extremely dry or dehydrated skin that needs a cream or oil cleanser with no foam
- You are highly sensitive to fragrance — this product contains Parfum
- You specifically need a very high-concentration Niacinamide treatment (this is a rinse-off product with brief contact time)
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding and prefer to avoid any fragrance-containing products out of caution
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESKaolin clay and Niacinamide work together to control excess sebum and minimize pores. The creamy foam lifts oil without over-drying, making it a standout choice for oily skin types.
Balances the oily T-zone while keeping drier cheek areas hydrated. The soap-free formulation with Glycerin and Panthenol prevents the tight, stripped feeling common with traditional foaming cleansers.
An everyday cleanser that maintains skin balance while delivering brightening benefits. Suitable for both AM and PM use; a reliable daily foundation step.
The Glycerin and Panthenol help offset potential dryness, but those with very dry or dehydrated skin may find a cream or balm cleanser more comfortable. Follow immediately with a rich moisturizer.
Free from harsh sulfates, parabens, and dyes. Allantoin and Panthenol soothe reactive skin. The Parfum may be a concern for extremely fragrance-sensitive individuals — patch test recommended.
Niacinamide regulates oil and calms inflammation; Kaolin helps decongest pores. However, the fatty acid content (Lauric, Myristic Acid) means this is not suitable for confirmed fungal acne. Great for hormonal or bacterial acne.
Results timeline
WEEK 6–8Immediate Cleansing & Comfort
From the first wash, skin feels clean, soft, and comfortable rather than tight or stripped. The creamy foam texture gently removes surface impurities and light makeup. No harshness or stinging sensation for most users.
95% noticed softer skin after first washImproved Skin Texture & Clarity
Regular twice-daily use begins to show refinement in skin texture. Pores appear slightly less congested due to Kaolin's cleansing action. Early signs of reduced surface oiliness thanks to Niacinamide's sebum-regulating properties.
78% noticed less midday shineBrighter, More Even Complexion
Niacinamide and Licorice Root Extract begin to visibly address dullness. Skin appears more luminous and even-toned. Users with mild post-acne marks may notice early fading. Overall radiance improves with consistent daily use.
65% reported brighter skin after 4 weeksVisible Brightening & Pore Improvement
More pronounced improvement in skin tone uniformity and reduction in visible pore size. Persistent dark spots and PIH from past breakouts appear lighter. Skin looks healthier and more vibrant with continued twice-daily application.
72% saw measurable improvement in skin toneRatings by platform
53K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Exceptional value for money — affordable price with effective active ingredients
- Creamy foam feels luxurious and gentle; no tightness after washing
- Niacinamide visibly reduces dullness and pore appearance over time
- Rinses off completely without any residue or film
- Halal certified and free from parabens, sulfates, and harsh alcohols
- Summer Plum extract is a unique, innovative anti-pollutant ingredient
- Available in travel-friendly 50ml and full-size 100ml options
- Suitable for both AM and PM use
- Great brightening results when paired with the Emina Bright Stuff range
Criticized
- Contains Parfum (fragrance) — not suitable for those with severe fragrance sensitivity
- NOT fungal-acne safe due to fatty acid content (Lauric Acid, Myristic Acid)
- Tube packaging makes it hard to use the last portion of the product
- May feel insufficient as a standalone cleanser for heavy makeup or high SPF removal
- Contact time is brief (rinse-off), so Niacinamide concentration effect is less potent than a leave-on serum
- Not ideal for very dry or dehydrated skin types that need oil-based cleansing
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Similar Niacinamide-forward brightening cleanser with a soap-free, non-stripping formula. Contains Yuzu extract as its brightening botanical counterpart to Summer Plum. Gel texture vs creamy foam — slightly less moisturizing feel but excellent cleansing power. Does not contain fatty acids like Lauric Acid — potentially more suitable for those on the fence about FA safety.
Cult-favorite low-pH gel cleanser formulated to preserve the skin's acid mantle. Uses tea tree oil and Betaine as actives — less brightening-focused than the Emina formula but excellent for acne-prone skin. Fragrance-free option for those sensitive to scent. Does not contain Niacinamide or clay.
Another Indonesian brightening face wash with a Halal certification and similarly accessible price point. Contains licorice extract and Vitamin C derivatives for brightening. More widely available in Indonesian pharmacies and minimarkets. Foamier texture than the Emina product; slightly higher cleansing strength that may feel drying on sensitive skin.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Skin Buddy Dot Burst Face Wash
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Look for the open-jar symbol on the packaging with "12M" printed on the base. Discard if the texture, color, or scent changes noticeably.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Avoid storing in humid bathroom environments when possible — a bedroom shelf or medicine cabinet is ideal to prolong shelf life.
Squeeze tube with flip-cap lid. Available in 50ml (travel/trial) and 100ml (full-size) formats. Tube packaging limits air exposure, helping to preserve the formula's stability and effectiveness.
Yes — the 50ml tube is TSA-compliant and well within the 100ml carry-on liquid limit for air travel. The flip-cap lid is secure and leak-resistant in luggage. The 100ml size also meets most airline regulations.
Frequently asked questions
FAQThis face wash does not contain retinoids, hydroquinone, salicylic acid at high concentrations, or oxybenzone — all of which are commonly flagged as unsafe during pregnancy. However, it does contain Parfum (fragrance), and some dermatologists advise avoiding unnecessary fragrance exposure during pregnancy as a precautionary measure. Propylene Glycol is also present and while generally recognized as safe, some expectant mothers prefer to minimize exposure. We recommend consulting your OB-GYN or dermatologist before introducing any new skincare product during pregnancy or breastfeeding, and opting for a fragrance-free cleanser if you prefer maximum caution.
No, this product is NOT considered fungal acne (malassezia folliculitis) safe. The formula contains several fatty acids — specifically Lauric Acid, Myristic Acid, and Stearic Acid — as well as Glycol Distearate (a fatty acid ester) and Saccharomyces Lysate (a yeast ferment), all of which can potentially feed Malassezia yeast. If you have confirmed fungal acne, we strongly recommend choosing a dedicated FA-safe face wash such as one formulated with Sulfur, Zinc Pyrithione, or a simple surfactant-only base free of fatty esters and ferments. Always consult a dermatologist for a confirmed fungal acne diagnosis and treatment plan.
Yes. As a rinse-off cleanser, Emina Bright Stuff Seriously Cleaan Face Wash is compatible with all major skincare actives including retinol, Vitamin C (ascorbic acid and derivatives), AHAs (glycolic, lactic acid), and BHAs (salicylic acid). The cleanser is rinsed away before leave-on actives are applied, so there is no direct interaction risk. Niacinamide in the formula is also compatible with all of these ingredients — contrary to outdated advice, Niacinamide and Vitamin C are safe to use in the same routine. Simply cleanse first, then proceed with your toner and active serums as normal.
This face wash is best suited for oily, combination, and normal skin types. The Kaolin clay and Niacinamide combination makes it especially effective for oily and acne-prone skin looking for sebum control and brightening. Normal skin users will appreciate the balanced cleansing action and brightening benefits. Sensitive skin users can typically use it, but should patch test first given the fragrance content. It is least recommended for very dry or severely dehydrated skin that requires a rich, oil-based or cream cleanser to maintain adequate moisture during cleansing. Those with fungal acne should avoid this product.
Most users report feeling an immediate improvement in skin softness and comfort from the very first wash. In terms of visible skin improvements: reduced oiliness and improved texture can typically be noticed within 1 to 2 weeks of consistent twice-daily use. Brightening effects from Niacinamide and Licorice Root Extract generally become visible between 3 to 6 weeks of regular use. For significant reduction of dark spots or hyperpigmentation, expect 8 to 12 weeks, especially when pairing the cleanser with Niacinamide or brightening leave-on serums from the Emina Bright Stuff range for enhanced results.
This face wash is always the first or second step in your skincare routine — after removing makeup with a cleansing balm or micellar water if needed (double cleansing). Apply it to damp skin, massage gently for 30 to 60 seconds, then rinse thoroughly. Follow with toner, essence, serum, moisturizer, and (in the morning) sunscreen. Use twice daily — morning and evening — for best results. Do not skip your morning cleanse; overnight sebum and skincare product residue still need to be removed before applying fresh morning skincare.
The comedogenic rating of this product is approximately 2 out of 5 based on its ingredient profile. Myristic Acid has a comedogenicity rating of 3/5 and Lauric Acid is rated 4/5 on the comedogenic scale — both are moderately comedogenic in leave-on products. However, this is a rinse-off cleanser, which dramatically reduces the actual comedogenic risk in real-world use. The skin is not exposed to these ingredients for prolonged periods. In practice, most oily and acne-prone skin users tolerate this cleanser without pore-clogging issues. If you are highly prone to comedones, do a patch test over 1 to 2 weeks before full-face use.
The Period After Opening (PAO) for this product is 12 months, indicated by the open-jar symbol on the packaging. With twice-daily use, a 100ml tube typically lasts approximately 2 to 3 months depending on the amount used per wash. The 50ml travel size lasts roughly 4 to 6 weeks with regular use. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to maintain the formula's stability. Discontinue use if the texture becomes watery, the color changes significantly, or the scent smells noticeably different from when first opened.
Verdict: The Emina Bright Stuff Seriously Cleaan Face Wash delivers impressive value for its price point, making it one of the best-performing Indonesian beauty cleansers available. ItsNiacinamide + Summer Plum Extract + Licorice Root combination provides genuine brightening and pore-refining benefits rarely found in a cleanser this affordable. The creamy foam texture is gentle, rinses clean, and leaves skin feeling soft rather than stripped — a significant advantage over traditional soap-based washes. The inclusion of Allantoin, Panthenol, and four free amino acids shows thoughtful, barrier-supportive formulation. The main limitations are its fragrance content (a consideration for sensitive users), its unsuitability for fungal acne, and its moderate comedogenic profile on paper (low practical risk as a rinse-off). For oily, combination, and normal skin types seeking a budget-friendly, Halal-certified brightening cleanser with clinically relevant actives, this is a highly recommended daily essential.
Product Overview
What are Quick Product Notes?
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Paraben-Free
Paraben-Free
Understanding Parabens
Parabens are a large group of preservatives which are used to prevent bacteria growing in cosmetic formulations. There has been some healthy controversy surrounding them due to a few studies finding paraben presence in breast tumours and breast tissue. However, the majority of the scientific community have deemed these findings non-conclusive due to the limitations of these studies. There's still a lot of support for avoiding parabens following the better safe than sorry route. If you do we completely support you! If you are concerned about the health safety of parabens, then feel free to avoid them by looking out for the Paraben-Free icon. If not, don't worry about it - they do have had one of the longest safety records as preservatives!
Which Ingredients are classified as Paraben?
A product will be paraben-free if it does not contain any of the following parabens:
- Sodium Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Ethylparaben
- Sodium Butylparaben
- Propylparaben
- Isopropylparaben
- Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Propylparaben
- Butylparaben
- Ethylparaben
- Sodium Methylparaben
- Methylparaben
Sulfate-Free
Sulfate-Free
Understanding Sulfates
Sulfates are a large group of ingredients which act as cleansing agents in Cosmetics. They help loosen up the dirt and grime from your skin and hair to allow for water to wash it away with ease. However some sulfates are so good at their job, they can wash off your skin’s own natural oils that keep it moisturised and protected which can lead to dryness and irritation. Most people will find no issues with sulfate, however if you find your skin doesn't like sulfates then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the sulfate-free icon on Skincarisma.
Which ingredients are classified as sulfates?
We've taken the Sulfates which are considered more harsh for our Sulfate-Free status. A product will be Sulfate-Free if it does not contain any of the following Sulfates:
- TEA-Dodecylbenzenesulfonate
- Ammonium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
- PEG-15 Cocamine
- Sodium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate
- Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate
- Dioctyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate
- Ammonium Xylenesulfonate
- Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
- Sodium Xylenesulfonate
- Sodium Myreth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate
Alcohol-Free
Alcohol-Free
Understanding Simple Alcohols
Alcohol ingredients are widely used in cosmetics and come in different types. For the most part alcohols are not problematic at all. However one type of alcohols, simple alcohols can be quite drying to the skin because it evaporates very quickly. This can cause irritation which can also lead to other skin complications. These alcohols should never be used alone on your skin, but combined with other cosmetic ingredients, they are normally without issue. However, for some people with sensitive and easily irritable skin, avoiding products with these simple alcohols may be beneficial. If you find your skin doesn't like these simple alcohols, then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the Alcohol-Free icon.
Which Ingredients are classified as Alcohol?
A product will be alcohol-free if it does not contain any of the following alcohol ingredients:
- SD Alcohol
- Alcohol Denat
- Isopropyl Alcohol
- Alcohol
Silicone-Free
Silicone-Free
Understanding Silicones
If you've ever used a skincare, makeup or beauty product that's made your skin look and feel smoother tempoarily - it's likely contained Silicone. They are a popular class of ingredients found in cosmetics due to their smooth, soft, easy-to-spread and smooth properties that help creates an artificial layer/barrier on top of skin or hair (commonly found in conditioners).
For the same reasons they are popularly used, they are also commonly avoided. Anecdotally, many individuals have reported that Silicones cause/excerbate breakouts, irritation, cause a feeling of skin being unable to breathe, cause clumping of cosmetic products and find it difficult to wash off. As a result, those who find them problematic are avoiding them and increasingly, cosmetic companies are avoiding them as well.
If you have had bad experiences with Silicones in the past, or suspect they are problematic then look out for the tick on the Silicone-free label.
Disclaimer
The Silicone-free label only includes the most common Silicone ingredients that have indentified been reported by individuals that could potentially cause issues.
These include: Amodimethicone, Behenoxy Dimethicone, Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone, Cetearyl Methicone, Cetyl Dimethicone, Cyclomethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Dimethicone Copolyol, Dimethiconol, Methicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Stearoxy Dimethicone, Stearyl Dimethicone, Trimethylsilylamodimethicone.
Note, that this does not include all ingredients part of the Silicone class of ingredients.
EU Allergen-Free
EU Allergen-Free
Understanding the Identified Contact Allergens
The EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has identified and established 26 cosmetic ingredients that are likely contact allergens (potential to cause skin allergies) as demonstrated in clinical or epidemiological studies. The EU's SCCS have recommend cosmetic companies to disclose them on the labels if used and in cases where the concentration exceeds 0.001% in leave-on products and 0.01% in rinse-off products, then they must be labelled.
Look out for the tick on the EU-Allergen free label to know your cosmetic is free from any of the 26 identified cosmetic ingredients.
For more information regarding the EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, please visit their official website.
Disclaimer
The EU Allergen Free label is for the 26 ingredients identified by the EU SCCS and products will be only flagged if a suspected ingredient is on it's ingredient list. It is possible for cosmetics to contain one of the suspect ingredients without it appearing on the ingredient list due to it not reaching the concentration threshold to disclose it and cosmetic manufacturers choice to not disclose it.
Also note, the EU Allergen Free label is not personalized for your own allergies you may have and it does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Understanding Fungal Acne (Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia Folliculitis)
Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia folliculitis or simply known as Fungal Acne is a persistent acne-like condition that commonly responds poorly to traditional acne-treating methods. Unlike most cases of Acne where bacteria is the culprit, Fungi is the culprit of Fungal Acne (Hence the name!). There are certain classes & groups of ingredients that have been shown to promote and feed the growth of the Fungal Acne, Fungi such as fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates and fermented ingredients.
For more information regarding Fungal Acne, please visit Simple Skincare Science (f.c) - #3 of our Recommend Skincare Resources for an amazing comprehensive guide!
Please Read: How to use the Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Label
At SkinCarisma, we've done our best to identify as many ingredients as possible but note the fungal-free label may not be 100% accurate due to the complexconditions and combination of ingredients that malezzeria can thrive on.
Additionally, products that may contain ingredients that have shown to feed Malassezia may not neccessarily exacerbate the condition due to concentration of ingredient used in the product, this information is simply not available on the products.
As a result, please note this is only an experimental label that can be best used to possible identify problematic products you have used in the past. It is in no way a perfect identifier nor a predictor in whether or not it will exacerbate or cause fungal acne. It will continue to be worked on as more information and research comes to light.
If you find any ingredients you believe should be included, please email us at snails@skincarisma.com.
Disclaimer
Due to the lack of substantial research into this area it is very likely there are other ingredients and class/groups of ingredients that could feed Fungal Acne which have not been indentified.
The Fungal-Safe label does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
Anti-Aging from 1 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 2 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 4 ingredient(s):
Ache-fighting from 2 ingredient(s):
What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
Pro Tip Alert!
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Dry Skin
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
Sensitive Skin
What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
Pro Tip Alert!
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Myristic Acid
Perfuming, Fragrance, Emulsifying, Opacifying, Sufactant
|
|
|
| 3 |
Propylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Skin-Conditioningagent - Miscellaneous
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 0 |
Potassium Hydroxide
Buffering
|
|
|
| 1 |
Stearic Acid
Masking, Fragrance, Emulsion Stabilising, Emulsifying, Sufactant, Refatting, Cleansing
|
|
|
| 1 |
Glycol Distearate
Skin Conditioning, Emollient, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Emulsifying, Opacifying
|
|